Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Key Genes Involved in Response and Recovery to High Heat Stress Induced by Fire in Schima superba

Abstract

Fire-resistant tree species play a crucial role in forest fire prevention, utilizing several physiological and molecular mechanisms to respond to extreme heat stress. Many transcription factors (TFs) and genes are known to be involved in the regulatory network of heat stress response in plants. However, their roles in response to high temperatures induced by fire remain less understood. In this study, we investigated Schima superba, a fire-resistant tree, to elucidate these mechanisms. Leaves of S. superba seedlings were exposed to fire stimulation for 10 s, 30 s, and 1 min, followed by a 24-h recovery period. Fifteen transcriptomes were assembled to identify key molecular and biological pathways affected by high temperatures. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis revealed essential candidate genes and TFs involved in the heat stress response, including members of the ethylene-responsive factors, WRKY, MYB, bHLH, and Nin-like families. Genes related to heat shock proteins/factors, lipid metabolism, antioxidant enzymes, dehydration responses, and hormone signal transduction were differentially expressed after heat stress and recovery, underscoring their roles in cellular process and recovery after heat stress. This study advances our understanding of plant response and defense strategies against extreme abiotic stresses.